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The ASAP Annual Conference 2024, held on 28th November at Convene, London, truly delivered on its theme: Connecting the World of Serviced Living. Hundreds of industry professionals, suppliers, and stakeholders came together for a day brimming with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and thought-provoking panel sessions.
Exploring the Current Landscape: A Global Perspective
One of the most eagerly anticipated panels, State of the Nation, provided a comprehensive analysis of the serviced accommodation industry. Discussions explored the ripple effects of global geopolitical events, including political shifts, rising air travel costs, and emerging opportunities due to growth in markets such as India and China. The panel also addressed challenges in European markets, painting a vivid picture of the sector’s current state and future trajectory.
Policy, Regulation, and Strategic Insights
The Policy & Regulation session sparked valuable dialogue on the impact of licensing and regulatory changes across the globe, particularly focusing on short-term lets in England, Scotland and New York. Key takeaways included the importance of striking a balance between necessary regulation and supporting industry growth. Case studies, such as Scotland’s seven-year regulatory journey, underscored how collaboration between policymakers and industry stakeholders can shape sustainable outcomes.
People: The Core of Every Organisation
A highlight of the day was the People – To Hire and to Hold panel discussion, expertly moderated by Trine Oestergaard-Stafford, our Managing Director. The session delved into the vital role company culture plays in retaining talent, along with strategies for bridging generational differences and change in the workplace. Other topics covered included staff retention, training & development, recruitment, mental health & well-being at work. Attendees left with actionable ideas on the various subjects covered and the overall feedback from the session was very positive.
The Buyer’s Perspective
The Meet the Buyers session offered an interactive space to connect with providers and discuss the evolving needs of buyers. Industry trends such as the growing importance of cleanliness and hygiene, alongside sustainability considerations in decision-making, highlighted the shifting priorities of today’s travellers.
The Agent’s View: Market Trends and Technology
The Agent’s View Panel provided a fascinating look at the evolving dynamics of serviced living. Panellists discussed key market trends, such as the increasing interest among SMEs in serviced apartments and the impact of cost and cleanliness on travel decisions. Sustainability also emerged as a recurring theme, with businesses balancing eco-conscious practices with operational priorities as it has fallen down the list of importance from surveyed business travellers.
One of the most forward-looking topics was the role of technology in shaping guest experiences and driving operational efficiencies. From the adoption of AI to improve booking processes and customer interactions to the value of familiarisation trips in fostering trust and enthusiasm, the session highlighted the innovative strategies shaping the future of the industry.
An Inspiring Closing Address and Fundraising Success
The day concluded with an engaging keynote speech by Simon Calder, one of the UK’s foremost travel experts. His humorous yet insightful address offered a fresh perspective on consumer trends and challenges, leaving the audience inspired. Simon mentioned that in all his years of representing consumer interests in the travel industry, he has yet to receive a complaint about a serviced apartment! A glowing reference for the sector indeed!
The conference also celebrated a significant milestone, raising over £6,000 for Prostate Cancer UK in support of the ASAP CEO James Foice. The fundraising success culminated in a lighthearted moment when Kearon M. of Staycity Group shaved off his beard, much to the delight of attendees.
A Celebration of Collaboration and Innovation
The conference was a testament to the strength of the serviced accommodation industry, fostering collaboration and highlighting shared goals. It provided a unique platform to address challenges, explore opportunities, and ignite optimism for the future.
The event wouldn’t have been possible without the dedication and hard work of the ASAP team along with the ASAP event’s team, which included our own MD, Trine Oestergaard Stafford and our Operations Manager, Cristina Lopez, who ensured the smooth running of a truly memorable day.
As we look ahead to 2025, the insights gained from this conference will undoubtedly shape the industry, driving innovation and uniting stakeholders in the shared pursuit of excellence in serviced living.